April 10, 2026 — United Oil & Gas (UOG) has reported the detection of higher-weight hydrocarbons, butanes (C4) and pentanes (C5), in seabed core samples from the Walton–Morant licence offshore southern Jamaica. The findings strengthen indications of a potential active petroleum system in an area with no prior commercial oil production.
The samples were collected during UOG’s Seabed Geochemical Exploration (SGE) survey, conducted in January and February. Analysis by TDI-Brooks laboratory in Texas identified the presence of the C4 and C5 hydrocarbons in headspace gas from select piston cores — compounds typically associated with thermogenic, deep-sourced hydrocarbons rather than shallow biogenic gas.
Evidence of an Oil System
UOG interprets these results as indirect evidence of an active offshore oil system. The company highlighted that satellite oil slicks, historical onshore/offshore oil seeps, and seismic data already hinted at petroleum presence. CEO Brian Larkin said:
> “The detection of butanes and pentanes provides further evidence consistent with an active oil system offshore Jamaica.”
While the findings support the company’s exploration model, UOG emphasises that no oil has been discovered to date. The detection remains an inference rather than a direct measurement of oil, as detailed isotopic or biomarker analyses have not yet been released.
Project Background
UOG holds 100% of the 22,400 km² Walton–Morant licence, having first acquired a 20% stake in 2017. Independent auditor GaffneyCline estimates mean prospective recoverable resources of 2.4 billion barrels of oil equivalent, while UOG’s internal estimate is 7 billion barrels. These volumes remain theoretical and are not classified as proven reserves.
The recent three-stage survey — including multibeam bathymetry, heat-flow measurements, and 42 piston cores — was designed to reduce exploration risk ahead of any drilling. The company believes the survey has raised the chance of success from 25% to 33%.
Next Steps and Outlook
UOG plans to integrate the new geochemical data into its geological models and continue seeking a drilling partner. A single test well, estimated to cost £30–40 million, is considered the definitive step for confirming a commercial discovery. First drilling is unlikely before 2027, pending funding and farm-out agreements.
Analysts caution that while the survey results are promising, success remains uncertain, with probabilities still in the range of tens of percent.
Key Figures
- Licence area: 22,400 km²
- Prospective resources: 7 billion barrels (UOG), 2.4 billion barrels (independent)
- First exploration well: Target 2027, cost £30–40 million
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